2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,731 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 198 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
